As a native Michigander, I’m concerned about the state’s well-being. Of course, a large part of this well-being comes directly from Michigan’s policies and how they affect all Michiganders. This concern was so near and dear to my heart that I focused on state and local politics in college and, after graduation, I joined the Mackinac Center as a full-time member of the staff.

That said, full-time policy work isn’t a possibility for everyone. You could care deeply about public policy but not be at a place where you can drop everything and dedicate your life to it. It’s also possible to care about policy but have no idea where to start or how to make a difference. Taking that first step can be really hard, and that’s where Opportunity Michigan comes in.

Opportunity Michigan is the Mackinac Center’s new initiative aimed at providing everyone with the skills, outlets, and tools they need to help make policy changes, both at Lansing and at home. The best part about Opportunity Michigan? It can be completely tailored to your passions.

There are many ways to get involved, from low-commitment options, like signing up for policy updates about specific issues, to more active options, like attending events and connecting to others within the network. Oportunity Michigan seeks to create an active network that allows individuals who are passionate about policy to connect with each other and work toward meaningful change for all people.

It can be hard, as one person, to feel like you have a voice. That’s why it’s so important to connect with like-minded individuals who are just as passionate about making a difference. Together, we can work to make Michigan the best place it can be for all of its residents.

If you want to learn more about Opportunity Michigan and how you can get involved, check out our website: OpportunityMichigan.org.